Teenager Rescued After Being Found Chained to Sofa and Locked Alone

A 13-year-old teenager diagnosed with autism and schizophrenia was rescued in Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil, after being found chained to a sofa and locked alone in a commercial room. The victim sustained multiple injuries to his legs, chest, and arms, and reported being beaten with a vine by his stepfather. He was forced to sleep on the sofa with only a blanket, while his mother and stepfather slept in a bed. The rescue occurred on Wednesday night, November 15th, following anonymous tips received by the mayor of Anápolis via social media. Upon investigating the location, authorities heard the boy crying and were able to gain access to the room, which had no windows or other exits and was secured by a metal door locked from the outside. The boy's mother and stepfather fled the scene upon noticing the police presence and are currently being sought. They are under investigation for abandonment of a vulnerable person, mistreatment, and bodily harm. Authorities are also investigating whether the teenager received any benefits or assistance related to his medical diagnoses. The boy was taken to a health unit for treatment and is awaiting an inpatient placement due to his condition. The local government and health unit are working to find a caregiver for him, as he has been abandoned by his family and has no other relatives to care for him. He remained hospitalized as of Thursday night, November 16th.